Future of TAFE in doubt as government favours funding to industry, and vocational education competitors arise.

Career advisors, teachers, employers and students in vocational education and training are taking part in events for National Skills Week between August 25-31 across the country, under the theme The Magical Mystery Tour of Skills.

Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane told the national launch in Brisbane vocational education and training (VET) reform was government priority:

“The Australian Government’s reform agenda represents the first time in a long time that we have taken a long hard look at all aspects of the VET system.”

Streamlining the system, getting rid of red tape and consulting more with business will ensure Australia’s training system is second to none, Macfarlane says, signalling a move to more funding for employer-based VET programs and $476 million to the Industry Skills Fund, in lieu of additional support for education institutions. The VET sector will also be involved in the reform consultation, but the future of TAFE is not clear. Macfarlane said:

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Author Bio

Harley Dennett is editor at The Mandarin based in Canberra. He's held communications roles in the New South Wales public sector and Defence, and been a staff reporter for newspapers in Sydney and Washington DC.

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